2020 CEA Tax Story
If we have learned anything at CEA this past year it is that we have an amazing clientele and are fortunate to have each of you. We look forward to serving you in 2021. Our hope is that this tax season will be smooth and Zooms by with no surprises.
We have all had to adapt to many changes throughout 2020 and will probably have more in the months to come so we strongly encourage everyone to visit our website frequently.
It allows you a 24-hour access to valuable information such as a link to our Secure Portal with an easy way to reset your portal password. We have included The Tax Planning Guide located on the front page; this is updated as changes are made to tax laws. You will also find a “resource” page that will link you to many federal and local agencies with just the click of the mouse.
I am happy to inform you that the office has been healthy all year. We have been working from the office since the first case of COVID broke out. I attribute this mainly to Jaylene for wiping everything down after a client leaves and spraying that horrible spray which reminds me of my junior high teacher back in the early 80’s. I imagine it is a matter of time when it hits the office, but we continue to take all the precautions like we have since early March. Hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, aerosols spray you know the routine. We have been blessed with our health and our fabulous employees.
Storm just celebrated her 21st anniversary and works harder than possible.
When lots of people are retiring, I had to make her take time off this year. Honestly, she is one of the hardest working people. Plus, she does Pilates. Do not mess with her :)
Joe Baptist is starting his 4th year at the firm and is the most detailed person I know. He is going to ask lots of good questions and is interested in saving you money. As most of you are reading this letter, I anticipate that he will be our newest CPA. He has one part left to pass the CPA exam and studies every day.
Katie has been with us for 2 years. She graduated from Illinois College in May 2020 and is attending graduate classes at UIS to obtain her Master of Accounting. I think it is wonderful when she informs me of the things she has applied in the classroom from our office.
Most of you met Jillian last year unfortunately she is not an accountant by trade. She has a degree in Biology and has gone to work with the State of Illinois. When she came to us, I realized it would not last forever and so I thank her for giving us one great year!!!
Donita has some big shoes to fill. She has been in the medical field for 28 years and is looking for a change.
We are all bonded together by Jaylene. Please pray for her as she is surrounded by OCD people every day and NIGHT. She has been the office manager for 8 years now.
HOLY COW how long have I been doing this?
This will be my 30th tax season if I count the 1-year internship I had at Jaylene’s grandma’s office back in March 1991 in Quincy.
Oh, I almost forgot someone. Madison Epperson will be here until January 24. She is getting her Master of Accounting at St. Ambrose University and studying for the CPA exam. Her schedule has been disrupted like most students and will work downtown Chicago for a competitor come summer of 2021.
Anyway, we are prepared for another tax season. We will continue our curbside drop off and pickup of tax returns or if you would like to come inside, we ask that you wear a mask. More than likely, you will be greeted by Donita. Please welcome her to her new FT/PT position. We hope she stays many years to come.
We have been diligent keeping up with the many tax law changes this year. Geesh it is never ending. I am sure there will be a few more tax law changes that will impact your 2021 taxes and perhaps 2020 taxes??
Thanks,
The CEA Team!
